Barachois (band)
| Company type | Musical group |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1993 |
| Founder | Hélène Bergeron, Albert Arsenault, Louise Arsenault, Chuck Arsenault |
| Defunct | 2003 |
| Headquarters | Evangeline Region, Prince Edward Island , Canada |
| Products | Music albums |
Barachois was a traditional Acadian music ensemble originating from the Evangeline Region in Prince Edward Island. Their energetic shows highlighted regional fiddling, stepdancing, and vocal traditions.
History
The band was established in the mid-1990s by siblings Hélène Bergeron and Albert Arsenault, along with distant relative Louise Arsenault and non-related member Chuck Arsenault. The name Barachois denotes a shallow coastal lagoon typical of eastern Canada.
Beginning their journey in 1993 with performances at dinner theatres and private gatherings, Barachois launched their first album, Barachois, in 1996. This release led to three nominations at the 1997 East Coast Music Awards, where they secured the award for Francophone Recording of the Year. Throughout nearly a decade, they produced three albums and earned several honors, including five ECMAs, a Juno Award nomination, and the distinction of "Chevaliers" de l'Ordre de la Pléiade.
The group toured extensively throughout Canada, the United States, and fifteen additional countries. In 2003, Barachois disbanded on good terms. Afterward, Chuck and Albert performed as a duo for seven years, blending humor with traditional music. Meanwhile, Louise and Hélène formed and performed with two other French-Acadian ensembles: Les Girls and Gadelle.
Members
The band consisted of:
- Albert Arsenault – fiddle, Acadian percussion, bass guitar, vocals
- Hélène Bergeron – keyboards, guitar, fiddle, vocals
- Louise Arsenault – fiddle, guitar, foot percussion, vocals
- Chuck Arsenault – guitar, brass instruments, harmonica, vocals
Discography
- 1996 Barachois – Acadian Music from Prince Edward Island
- 1999 Encore!
- 2002 Naturel